Exercise Training and Behavioral Modification for the Improvement of Physical Activity in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Undergoing Cancer Treatment
Head and Neck Carcinoma, Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma, Laryngeal Carcinoma
About this trial
This is an interventional supportive care trial for Head and Neck Carcinoma
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with head and neck cancer including cancers of the sinuses, oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, or larynx (all stages); therapeutically eligible to receive at least three months of immunotherapy
- Medically cleared by oncologist to engage in aerobic and resistance exercise intervention
- 18 years of age or older
- Access to a smartphone and have an active wi-fi connection at home
- Able to read and/or to speak English
- Able to comprehend and sign a written informed consent (no cognitive decline)
- Women of reproductive potential must have a negative serum or urine pregnancy test within the week prior to starting therapy
Exclusion Criteria:
- Severe or unstable cardiopulmonary, metabolic, or renal disease as determined by the referring oncologist
- Unable to walk safely without physical assistance of another person
- Any condition that may limit the ability to comply with behavioral recommendations of the program
- Pregnant or planning a pregnancy
Sites / Locations
- Thomas Jefferson University HospitalRecruiting
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Active Comparator
Arm I (exercise training, behavior modification)
Arm II (Fitbit, consultation)
Beginning 1 week prior to start of intervention, patients receive a Fitbit to monitor physical activity for 13 weeks. Patients receive consultation and personalized exercise prescription from a physical therapist at baseline, and attend exercise training sessions with a physical therapist during weeks 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12. Patients also attend behavior modification sessions with a behavioral therapist that focus on goal setting and healthy behavior changes during weeks 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, and 11.
Patients receive a Fitbit to monitor physical activity for 12 weeks. Patients also receive consultation from a physical therapist to assess physical performance at weeks 1, 6, and 12.